Best Fruits For Your Dog's Health
As summer kicks off, Australia’s best seasonal fruits are bursting with flavour, and they’re not just for us humans! Many of these juicy, sun-ripened treats make fantastic snacks for our four-legged friends. Packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, some fruits can support your dog’s immune system, hydration, and even skin and coat health.
So, grab a basket of summer fruits and let’s dive into the top 10 best Aussie fruits to share with your dog (plus a few to avoid!).
Top 10 Dog-Friendly Fruits & Their Benefits
1. Blueberries 🫐
Benefits: High in antioxidants and vitamin C, promoting immune health and supporting cognitive function.
Serving Size: 5–10 blueberries, depending on your dog’s size.
Tip: Serve them fresh or freeze them for a cooling treat on hot days.
2. Watermelon (Seedless) 🍉
Benefits: Hydrating and full of vitamins A, B6, and C for skin, coat, and immune support.
Serving Size: 1–3 small cubes (about 1 inch each) per 10 pounds of body weight.
Tip: Remove seeds and rind to prevent digestive issues, and offer in small chunks for easy chewing.
3. Apples 🍎
Benefits: Packed with fibre and vitamin A, helping with digestion and freshening breath.
Serving Size: 1–2 slices, about ½ inch thick, depending on your dog’s size.
Tip: Always core the apple and remove seeds, which contain trace amounts of cyanide.
4. Strawberries 🍓
Benefits: Great source of vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting dental health and immunity.
Serving Size: 1–3 strawberries, cut into small pieces for dogs under 30 pounds; larger dogs can have a few more.
Tip: Serve sliced or mashed to prevent choking and make it easier to digest.
5. Mango (No Pit) 🥭
Benefits: Rich in beta-carotene, potassium, and multiple vitamins, aiding in eye and immune health.
Serving Size: 1–2 small cubes for smaller dogs; 3–4 cubes for larger dogs.
Tip: Remove the pit and skin, as the pit contains cyanide and could pose a choking hazard.
6. Pineapple 🍍
Benefits: Loaded with digestive enzymes, vitamins, and natural sugars for an energy boost.
Serving Size: 1–2 bite-sized pieces for small dogs; up to 4 pieces for large dogs.
Tip: Avoid the core and skin—only the flesh is safe and easy for dogs to digest.
7. Bananas 🍌
Benefits: High in potassium and vitamin B6, promoting muscle and nerve health.
Serving Size: 1–2 small slices for small dogs; up to ½ banana for large dogs.
Tip: Bananas are naturally sugary, so keep servings small and offer occasionally
8. Peaches (No Pit) 🍑
Benefits: Full of fibre and vitamin A, which support skin, coat, and eye health.
Serving Size: 1–2 small pieces for small dogs; 2–4 pieces for larger dogs.
Tip: Remove the pit to avoid cyanide poisoning, and serve only the flesh in small chunks.
9. Rockmelon 🍈
Benefits: Hydrating and high in vitamins and fibre, which support digestion and skin health.
Serving Size: 1–2 bite-sized pieces for small dogs; up to 5 pieces for large dogs.
Tip: Remove the rind and seeds, as they can be tough on your dog’s digestive tract.
10. Raspberries
Benefits: High in fibre and antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties, ideal for senior dogs.
Serving Size: 2–3 raspberries for small dogs; up to 6 raspberries for large dogs.
Tip: Serve fresh, as frozen raspberries can be a choking hazard for small dogs.
Fruits to Avoid
While there are plenty of tasty fruits that are safe for dogs, there are a few you should avoid:
1. Grapes & Raisins
Even in small amounts, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Keep these well out of reach, especially during picnics and family gatherings where they might be easily accessible.
2. Cherries
Cherry pits contain cyanide, which is highly toxic to dogs. Even without the pits, cherries are too sugary and don’t offer significant benefits, so it’s best to skip them entirely.
4. Citrus Fruits (Lemons, Limes, Grapefruits)
Citrus fruits are too acidic for dogs and can lead to digestive upset. The peels and seeds can also cause irritation, so avoid giving citrus fruits to your furry friend.
How to Safely Serve Summer Fruits
- Always wash and peel the fruit where necessary, and remove any pits, seeds, or rinds.
- Serve in moderation: even with dog-safe fruits, too much can lead to digestive issues.
- Mix up their snacks by blending a few dog-friendly fruits into homemade frozen treats, or offer them as training rewards for a boost of flavour and nutrition!
This summer, why not share some of your fruity finds with your pup? Just remember: a little goes a long way. With the right fruits, you can help your dog stay cool, hydrated, and happy all season long!
